Couple charged in popcorn ruse

NEWTON FALLS, Ohio (WKBN) — Two people accused of tricking residents in several Trumbull County communities using a Boy Scout popcorn sale as a ruse now are facing charges.

Brian Billman, 33, of Warren, was arraigned Monday on 20 counts of theft and remains at the Trumbull County Jail on $30,000 bond. He is due back in Newton Falls Municipal Court on Thursday.

Christina Hill, 34, also of Warren, posted bond after being arraigned on one count of theft. She also is due back in court on Thursday.

The pair, along with Hill’s 14-year-old son, are accused of dressing the boy in a Boy Scout uniform and going door to door collecting money for popcorn that was never delivered. The teen is facing charges in Trumbull County Family Court.

Lordstown Police Chief Brent Milhoan said it is believed at least 50 people in the village may have been hit by the scheme, and he also believes homes in Warren, Niles, Howland and Champion were targeted.